How to test your website for color contrast

Today’s blog post explores how to test color contrast using the Accessible Web Helper, a browser extension that makes accessibility checks fast and practical. This tool helps evaluate whether text and interface elements meet WCAG standards for readability.

The Accessible Web Helper extension is available to download from the Chrome Store.

Video Guide

The Accessible Web Helper

Install the Accessible Web Helper and open it from your browser toolbar. The interface gives you quick access to key features:

Page scanning for general accessibility issues
A dedicated color contrast checker for detailed analysis

Select the color contrast checker to begin testing specific elements on your page.

The Eyedropper Tool

The tool relies on an eyedropper feature to capture exact colors from your screen. This removes guesswork and ensures accurate testing.

Start by selecting the foreground color. Click the eyedropper and choose the text you want to evaluate. Next, select the background color behind that text using the same method.

Once you pick both colors, the tool instantly calculates the contrast ratio.

Color Contrast Ratios

The contrast ratio shows how clearly text stands out from its background. For example, a ratio of 9.23 to 1 indicates strong contrast, making text highly readable.

The tool evaluates results against WCAG standards:

AA compliance requires at least 4.5 to 1 for small text and 3 to 1 for large text
AAA compliance requires 7 to 1 for small text and 4.5 to 1 for large text

A higher ratio improves readability across different visual conditions.

Test Beyond Web Pages

The Accessible Web Helper works outside live websites. You can test color combinations in:

Design mockups
Documents
Presentation slides

This flexibility supports accessibility throughout the design process rather than limiting it to final development stages.

Improved Accessibility with Better Contrast

Use color contrast testing early and often during design and development. Aim for higher contrast levels when possible, even if a design meets minimum standards.

Check all text elements, including headings, buttons, and footers. Small adjustments to color choices can significantly improve readability.

The Accessible Web Helper simplifies contrast testing and supports more inclusive digital experiences by making accessibility checks part of everyday workflows.

Let me be your champion for inclusion. I offer tailored solutions (and self-paced courses!) to ensure your documents meet and exceed compliance expectations. For more detailed insights, tutorials, and in-depth discussions on accessibility and related topics, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel: The Accessibility Guy on YouTube. Subscribe for regular updates!